Tottenham sign defender Alderweireld

London: English football club Tottenham Hotspur FC announced on Wednesday that it has reached an agreement with Spanish side Atletico Madrid to sign its Belgian defender Toby Alderweireld.

Tottenham confirmed via social networking site Twitter: "SIGNED: We are delighted to announce the signing of Toby Alderweireld from Atletico Madrid. Welcome Toby," reports Efe.

Alderweireld, on loan from Atletico to English club Southampton this year, signed until 2020 with his new club, though the final price tag has not yet been revealed.

"I'm very proud to be a THFC player. I'm happy to be here & hope to have a wonderful time with this team," the 26-year-old expressed on his Twitter account.

While the defender said he was excited about his next step, he also had good wishes and gratitude for Southampton and its fans.

Southampton coach, Dutchman Ronan Koeman, had previously signed a pre-agreement with Atletico Madrid to secure Alderweireld's services, so he may take the issue to court, British media reported on Wednesday.

If Koeman acts, the Spanish club could be forced to pay Southampton 1.5 million pounds ($2.3 million) to annul that agreement.